DoD News Briefing

Thursday, June 11, 1998 -- 2 p.m.

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Q: What is your reaction to reports that North Korea's No Dong missile is operational?

A: Well, we've been watching the development of these missiles very closely. We think that the development is complete. I don't think we're in a position right now to comment on whether they're deployed or operational. But we know that the development -- we believe that the development of the missiles is complete.

We've also stated very clearly on many occasions -- and I'll restate -- that proliferation of new missiles in the Asia-Pacific region is destabilizing -- potentially destabilizing. And we don't think that it's a good idea for North Korea today to be deploying new missiles. Clearly, North Korea needs to focus on feeding and clothing and caring for its people. And this doesn't seem to be the best way to do that.

Q: What was the range of the No Dong?

A: The No Dong missile has a range of about 1,000 kilometers, we believe.

Q: What kind of a statement do you say that the development is complete?

A: Sorry?

Q: Based on what kind of a state of proof do you say that development is complete?

A: National technical data that we have assembled through our normal practices.